Broken Hob? What to Do When Your Cooktop Stops Working

If you’ve tried turning the knobs and the burners still won’t light, you’re probably dealing with a broken hob. It’s a frustrating moment – dinner plans go sideways and you start wondering if you need a brand‑new cooktop. The good news is many hob problems are fixable without spending a fortune, and you don’t have to guess what’s wrong.

First, check the power. Electric hobs need a solid connection, so make sure the circuit breaker isn’t tripped and the plug is snug. A loose plug can cause intermittent heating, and resetting the breaker often clears a simple overload.

Common Reasons a Hob Breaks

Here are the usual suspects that cause a hob to quit:

• Faulty heating element: Over time the element can corrode or crack, leading to uneven heat or no heat at all.
• Burner switch failure: The switch that turns the element on can wear out, especially if you’ve used the hob heavily.
• Loose wiring: Vibrations from daily cooking can loosen connections inside the hob.
• Control board issues: Modern hobs have electronic boards that can develop glitches, causing erratic performance.
• Spill damage: Liquids that seep into the underside can short out components.

Spotting the exact cause saves you from unnecessary parts orders. If you hear a click but see no heat, the switch is a likely culprit. If the whole hob is dead, start with the power supply and wiring.

DIY Checks Before Calling a Pro

Before you pick up the phone, try these quick checks:

1. Turn off the power at the breaker, then remove the hob’s front panel (usually a couple of screws).
2. Inspect the heating elements for visible cracks or burnt spots.
3. Look for loose wires and tighten any that feel floppy.
4. Test the switch with a multimeter if you have one – a continuous beep means it’s good.
5. Wipe away any moisture or food debris that might be causing a short.

If everything looks fine and the hob still won’t work, it’s time to call a professional. Trying to replace a control board yourself can be risky and may void any warranty.

That’s where Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services comes in. Our technicians know every make and model of electric hob on the market. We can diagnose the problem on the spot, order the right part, and have your cooktop back in action within a few hours. Because we’re local, we can often fit you on the same day.

Our service includes a full safety check, so you won’t be left with a hidden fault that could start a fire later. We also give you a clear quote before any work begins – no surprise fees.

When you weigh DIY versus pro repair, consider the cost of a new hob (often £300–£800) against a typical repair (£80–£150). Most broken hobs are fixed for a fraction of that price, extending the life of a appliance you already own.

So, next time your hob refuses to heat, start with the simple power and visual checks. If the problem persists, give Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services a call. We’ll get your kitchen cooking again, fast and affordably.